It has been reported in the news that a school in Birmingham has reportedly axed plans to sell white poppies ahead of Remembrance Day for fear of a backlash.

The decision emerged after a pacifist group behind the initiative was accused of “indoctrinating” children with a campaign targeting pupils across the country.

The Peace Pledge Union (PPU) will this week formally launch a new campaign for schools across the country to endorse white poppies.

Battle of the Poppies - Would YOU consider waering a white poppy? (Wiki Image)

It aims to challenge the alleged “glamorisation” of war it said was represented by the red poppy.

A statement from the PPU said: "I’m saddened to hear this but not surprised.

"It is, sadly, not the first school to have done this and it probably won’t be the last.

"The reality is that most people will engage in discussion about the white poppy but the minority send abusive messages and even threaten those who sell them."

A statement from the Royal British Legion added: "We have no objection to white poppies, or any group expressing their views, and we see no conflict in wearing the red poppy alongside the white poppy."

Critics accused the pacifist group of trying to indoctrinate children with a left-wing political agenda – a claim it denied.

Catherine Arnold said “I don't understand, I always thought of the poppy as a simple remembrance for those who fell/served in times of conflict and to remind us all of the horrors of war - is that not a shout out for peace?? I'm not objecting to the idea of a white poppy but don't get why it is seen as necessary”

Judith Brosnan said “Red Poppy. The children should know why we wear the Red Poppy & be taught what that means. It’s not just about WW1 & WW2. People forget it covers ALL conflicts”

Fern Embree said “The poppy is to remember blood that was shed, lives lost. I am afraid I will accept nothing less than the red poppy I wear for all of the ones who never came home”

Marie Podger said “Both. Remembering the fallen is important. Striving for the peace for which they died is, too.”